Proapoptotic BAX and BAK Modulate the Unfolded Protein Response by a Direct Interaction with IRE1α
Abstract
Accumulation of misfolded protein in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) triggers an adaptive stress response-termed the unfolded protein response (UPR)-mediated by the ER transmembrane protein kinase and endoribonuclease inositol-requiring enzyme-1α (IRE1α). We investigated UPR signaling events in mice in the absence of the proapoptotic BCL-2 family members BAX and BAK [double knockout (DKO)]. DKO mice responded abnormally to tunicamycin-induced ER stress in the liver, with extensive tissue damage and decreased expression of the IRE1 substrate X-box-binding protein 1 and its target genes. ER-stressed DKO cells showed deficient IRE1α signaling. BAX and BAK formed a protein complex with the cytosolic domain of IRE1α that was essential for IRE1α activation. Thus, BAX and BAK function at the ER membrane to activate IRE1α signaling and to provide a physical link between members of the core apoptotic pathway and the UPR.
- Publication:
-
Science
- Pub Date:
- April 2006
- DOI:
- 10.1126/science.1123480
- Bibcode:
- 2006Sci...312..572H
- Keywords:
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- CELL BIOL